Newcastle United and Sweden have been plunged into a fresh injury crisis after star striker Alexander Isak was forced off during the national team's Euro 2024 qualifying match against Estonia.
The Magpies' record signing, who only recently returned from a lengthy layoff, appeared to aggravate an existing issue, casting serious doubt over his immediate future for both club and country.
Nightmare on Merseyside Precedes International Agony
Isak's latest setback comes just days after a physically and emotionally draining experience at Anfield. The 24-year-old played the full 90 minutes in Newcastle's dramatic 2-1 defeat to Liverpool, a match marred by a controversial red card for captain Virgil van Dijk and a 98th-minute winner for the Reds.
Having battled to regain full fitness after a troublesome injury, the strain of that intense Premier League clash appears to have taken its toll.
Sweden's Concerns Grow as Key Man Limps Off
The sight of Isak leaving the pitch in clear discomfort during Sweden's 5-0 victory will send alarm bells ringing from Stockholm to Tyneside. Initial reports suggest the problem is related to the same issue that sidelined him previously, though the Swedish FA is yet to release a full medical assessment.
National team manager Janne Andersson admitted his concern in a post-match press conference, stating, "We noticed he was not quite 100% and had to take the decision to substitute him. We will now assess the situation and wait for further diagnosis."
Newcastle's Anfield Anguish Compounded
The timing could hardly be worse for Newcastle manager Eddie Howe. The defeat at Liverpool, decided by Darwin Núñez's late double, was a brutal blow to the team's morale. To now potentially lose his talismanic forward for crucial upcoming fixtures represents a second devastating setback in a matter of days.
Howe had meticulously managed Isak's minutes in the early stages of the season, emphasising a long-term approach to his fitness. This unforeseen international break incident now threatens to derail those careful plans.
All eyes will now be on the results of a thorough medical evaluation. Newcastle fans will be desperately hoping their £60 million man has avoided a serious recurrence, fearing another extended period without their most potent attacking threat.
